Marie has been studying at New City College for several years, building her skills step by step — from English and Digital Skills to now progressing through her maths qualification. For her, adult education is about independence. She no longer wants to rely on her children for everyday tasks and wants the confidence to support herself.

Coming back to college has made a profound difference in her life. She talks about becoming more confident, understanding things she once struggled with, and feeling more capable in work, family life and her community. Each new skill, she says, builds on the last - “like a drop of water that becomes something bigger.”

Marie’s story also highlights the impact of course availability. She once relied on evening classes that no longer exist due to funding cuts, and now squeezes study into her week with the help of a supportive manager. If further funding is cut, she says people like her simply won’t be able to attend.

To her, adult education is vital for the country. It helps people gain the skills they need to work, contribute and feel part of society, rather than relying on benefits or feeling shut out. Her message to government is clear: invest in people, not cuts and give adults the chance to learn at any age.

Watch to learn why it’s time to #BackAdultLearning and #AdultLearningPays